Priti calls on justice ministers to improve compensation for victims
Witham MP Priti Patel has called on justice ministers to use the forthcoming Victims’ Bill to introduce new measures to improve compensation for victims of crime. Speaking during questions in the House of Commons to justice ministers, Priti referred to a case where a constituent suffered life changing injuries but received just £150 in a compensation order from the courts and been offered £1,000 from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
Priti, who has been a longstanding campaigner for more rights and compensation for victims of crime, said: “Victims of crime keep getting let down by the criminal justice system and the level of compensation awarded is often paltry and does not reflect the severity of impact crime has on an individual. We need to see reforms put in place so more victims get compensation. I will continue to press this issue and will be working with colleagues in Parliament to amend the Victims Bill currently being considered so the criminal justice system does more to support victims.”
Hansard entry for Priti’s question and the Minister’s answer (12 September 2023):